Key Takeaways
- Bryant Gumbel broke barriers as the first Black anchor of NBC’s “Today” show from 1982-1997 is alive and well.
- His HBO show “Real Sports” earned 37 Emmy Awards during its 29-year run.
- After 52 years in television, Gumbel retired in 2023 and was inducted into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame in 2024.
Bryant Gumbel, the legendary journalist and sportscaster, is very much alive as of this writing.
Born on September 29, 1948, Gumbel continues to be celebrated for his unparalleled contributions to television journalism, particularly his groundbreaking work on “Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel.”
After an illustrious career spanning over five decades, Gumbel retired in 2023, marking the end of an era.
His HBO show, Real Sports, ran for 29 years, earning 37 Sports Emmy Awards and two prestigious Peabody Awards.
Known for its investigative rigor, the series tackled some of the most pressing and controversial issues in sports, setting a gold standard for sports journalism.
A Storied Career
Bryant Gumbel first rose to prominence as the co-host of NBC’s Today show from 1982 to 1997, where he became the first Black anchor of a major network morning show.
His tenure on Today was marked by his incisive interviews, international reporting, and impressive ability to handle live broadcasts gracefully and precisely.
Before Today, Gumbel made a name for himself in sports broadcasting, covering NFL games, Major League Baseball, and the Olympics for NBC Sports.
In 1975, he became a co-host of GrandStand, NBC’s NFL pregame show, a pioneering role that showcased his expertise and charisma.
After leaving Today, Gumbel transitioned to CBS, where he hosted The Early Show and covered significant events, including the September 11 attacks.
However, it was his work on Real Sports that cemented his legacy as a journalist unafraid to ask tough questions and expose uncomfortable truths.
A Lifetime Of Achievements
In 2024, Gumbel was inducted into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame, a testament to his impact on the industry.
Throughout his career, he was lauded for his professionalism, sharp intellect, and ability to navigate complex topics with clarity and depth.
From exposing systemic issues like CTE in the NFL to shedding light on human rights abuses, Real Sports reflected Gumbel’s commitment to journalism as a tool for change.
Since retiring, Gumbel has kept a low profile, enjoying well-deserved rest after a lifetime of hard work.
When asked about his retirement, he remarked,
“I think 52 years in television is enough for anyone. If I never look into a camera again, that’s okay by me.”
Via Sports Video
While Gumbel may no longer be a regular presence on television, his influence endures.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Gumbel and his first wife June made their home in Waccabuc, New York, where they raised their two children.
- His marriage to June ended in 2001, and he later wed Hilary Quinlan.
- In October 2009, he faced a serious health challenge when he underwent surgery to remove a cancerous tumor that was located near his lung.
